Is lining the same width as curtain fabric?

Lining uses the same number of fabric widths as the face fabric, so this calculator carries your Total Fabric Widths straight across. Standard cotton sateen lining is 137cm wide (54 inch), close to most curtain fabric, and is trimmed 2-4cm narrower on each side so it does not show from the front.

How much shorter is the lining than the curtain?

Lining is cut slightly shorter than the face fabric so it sits above the curtain hem. The standard workroom allowance is a 16cm hem for floor-length curtains (12cm for sill-length), with no heading allowance because the lining is fixed below the heading tape rather than turned over the top.

What is interlining and when should I use it?

Interlining (bump or domette) sits between the face fabric and lining. It adds body, improves drape, provides insulation, and blocks more light. Use it for professional or luxurious curtains, especially in living rooms and bedrooms.

What type of curtain lining should I use?

Standard cotton sateen lining is most common. Blackout lining blocks light for bedrooms. Thermal lining adds insulation. For south-facing windows, consider fade-resistant lining to protect the face fabric.

SewCalcs

Curtain Lining Calculator — Lining & Interlining

Work out lining fabric and interlining requirements for professional curtains.

Total Fabric Widths

Number of fabric widths from your curtain fabric calculation — lining uses the same number

Finished Curtain Drop

Final curtain length from heading tape to hem

Include Interlining

Adds body, insulation and luxury drape

Lining Price (optional)

Cost per metre of lining fabric

How We Calculate This

Lining uses the same number of fabric widths as the face fabric, so this calculator carries your Total Fabric Widths straight across. The lining cut drop is the finished curtain drop plus a hem allowance only — there is no heading allowance, because the lining is fixed below the heading tape rather than turned over the top (sew-helpful workroom method).

The formula

Lining drop = Finished drop + 16cm hem (12cm for sill-length) + 0cm heading

Lining widths = Same as face fabric widths

Lining fabric (m) = Widths × Lining drop ÷ 100

Standard cotton sateen lining is 137cm (54 inch) wide. Interlining (bump or domette) uses the same widths and is cut to the finished drop plus a small allowance.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before cutting or purchasing fabric.